Introduction
Sony has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality audio products, and its wireless earbuds are no exception. The Sony WF-1000XM4 and Sony LinkBuds S are two standout models, each offering unique features and performance. This review compares these two models, focusing on their specifications, sound quality, noise cancellation, battery life, connectivity, and overall value.
Basic Information: Sony WF-1000XM4 and Sony LinkBuds S
To give you a comprehensive understanding, here are the basic specifications and features of both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and Sony LinkBuds S.
Sony WF-1000XM4
Release Date: June 2021
Type: True Wireless In-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones
Driver Size: 6mm dynamic drivers
Noise Cancellation: Advanced with Integrated Processor V1
Battery Life: Up to 8 hours (earbuds) + 16 hours (charging case)
Charging: USB-C and Qi wireless charging
Water Resistance: IPX4 (splash-proof)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, supports SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs
Controls: Touch-sensitive controls
Special Features: Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, High-Resolution Audio Wireless, Voice Assistant Compatibility (Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa)
Weight: 7.3 grams per earbud, 41 grams for the case
Colors: Black, Silver
Sony LinkBuds S
Release Date: May 2022
Type: True Wireless Open-Ear Headphones
Driver Size: 12mm ring-shaped drivers
Noise Cancellation: No active noise cancellation, features ambient sound mode
Battery Life: Up to 5.5 hours (earbuds) + 12 hours (charging case)
Charging: USB-C
Water Resistance: IPX4 (splash-proof)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, supports SBC, AAC codecs
Controls: Touch-sensitive controls
Special Features: Transparency Mode, Smart Assistant Integration (Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa), Open-Ring Design for situational awareness
Weight: 4.8 grams per earbud, 34 grams for the case
Colors: Black, White
Key Differences
- Design: The WF-1000XM4 has a traditional in-ear design with a focus on noise isolation and comfort, while the LinkBuds S feature a unique open-ring design for situational awareness.
- Sound Quality: The WF-1000XM4 offers superior sound quality with high-resolution audio support and advanced noise cancellation. The LinkBuds S provide good sound quality but prioritize environmental awareness.
- Noise Cancellation: The WF-1000XM4 excels with its advanced noise-canceling technology, whereas the LinkBuds S do not offer active noise cancellation but include an ambient sound mode.
- Battery Life: The WF-1000XM4 provides longer battery life compared to the LinkBuds S.
- Charging: The WF-1000XM4 supports both USB-C and wireless charging, while the LinkBuds S only support USB-C charging.
- Use Case: The WF-1000XM4 is ideal for those seeking immersive audio and noise cancellation, making it suitable for travel and noisy environments. The LinkBuds S are designed for users who need to stay aware of their surroundings, such as during outdoor activities or commuting.
Detailed information
≈ Design and Comfort
Sony WF-1000XM4
The Sony WF-1000XM4 boasts a sleek, modern design with a compact form factor that fits snugly in the ear. The ergonomic plan guarantees an agreeable fit for broadened listening meetings. The earbuds come with multiple sizes of silicone tips to accommodate different ear shapes and sizes.
Sony LinkBuds S
The Sony LinkBuds S, on the other hand, have a unique and innovative design. Unlike traditional in-ear designs, the LinkBuds S feature a ring-shaped driver that allows for an open-ear listening experience. This design is intended to keep users aware of their surroundings while still delivering high-quality audio. The LinkBuds S are lightweight and offer a secure fit, making them suitable for active users who need to stay alert.
Winner: The choice here depends on personal preference. If you prefer a traditional in-ear design with a secure fit, the WF-1000XM4 is the winner. If you prioritize situational awareness and a lightweight design, the LinkBuds S takes the lead.
≈ Sound Quality
Sony WF-1000XM4
The WF-1000XM4 is renowned for its exceptional sound quality. Equipped with a new Integrated Processor V1 and high-resolution audio support, these earbuds deliver rich, detailed sound with deep bass and clear highs. The noise-canceling capabilities are top-notch, effectively blocking out ambient noise and allowing for an immersive listening experience.
Sony LinkBuds S
The LinkBuds S, while offering good sound quality, do not quite match the level of the WF-1000XM4. The open-ring design naturally lets in some ambient sound, which can affect the overall audio experience. However, this design also means that the LinkBuds S are excellent for listening to music while staying aware of your surroundings, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
Winner: Sony WF-1000XM4. For pure sound quality and noise-canceling performance, the WF-1000XM4 is superior.
≈ Noise Cancellation
Sony WF-1000XM4
The noise-canceling feature on the WF-1000XM4 is one of the best in the market. The Integrated Processor V1, along with dual noise sensor technology, provides exceptional noise isolation. Whether you’re on a plane, in a noisy cafe, or commuting, these earbuds excel at minimizing external sounds.
Sony LinkBuds S
The LinkBuds S do not offer active noise cancellation. Their open design is intended to let in ambient noise, which can be beneficial for situational awareness but is not ideal if you need to block out external sounds.
Winner: Sony WF-1000XM4. If noise cancellation is a priority, the WF-1000XM4 is the clear winner.
≈ Battery Life
Sony WF-1000XM4
The WF-1000XM4 offers impressive battery life, with up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge and an additional 16 hours with the charging case. Fast charging provides an hour of playback with just a 5-minute charge.
Sony LinkBuds S
The LinkBuds S offers a decent battery life, with up to 5.5 hours of playback on a single charge and an additional 12 hours with the charging case. While this is sufficient for most daily activities, it falls short of the WF-1000XM4.
Winner: Sony WF-1000XM4. For longer battery life and quick charging capabilities, the WF-1000XM4 is superior.
Specifications
Sony WF-1000XM4
- Driver Size: 6mm dynamic drivers
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours (buds) + 16 hours (case) with ANC on; up to 12 hours (buds) + 24 hours (case) without ANC
- Charging: USB-C and Qi wireless charging
- Water Resistance: IPX4
- Bluetooth Version: 5.2
- Codecs Supported: LDAC, AAC, SBC
- Weight: 7.3 grams per earbud
- Additional Features: Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, Google Assistant and Alexa support
Sony LinkBuds S
- Driver Size: 5mm dynamic drivers
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours (buds) + 14 hours (case) with ANC on; up to 9 hours (buds) + 18 hours (case) without ANC
- Charging: USB-C
- Water Resistance: IPX4
- Bluetooth Version: 5.2
- Codecs Supported: LDAC, AAC, SBC
- Weight: 4.8 grams per earbud
- Additional Features: Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, Google Assistant and Alexa support
Design and Comfort
Sony WF-1000XM4
The WF-1000XM4 boasts a sleek, premium design with a matte finish and ergonomic shape. The slightly larger size compared to other models is compensated by a comfortable and secure fit, thanks to the redesigned ear tips made of soft, high-friction material. Despite the size, the earbuds remain comfortable for long periods.
Sony LinkBuds S
The LinkBuds S feature an open-ring design that allows ambient sounds to pass through, making them ideal for users who need situational awareness. They are lightweight and very comfortable, suitable for prolonged use. However, the open design might not be the best for noisy environments if isolation is needed.
Sound Quality
Sony WF-1000XM4
The WF-1000XM4 excels in sound quality with its 6mm drivers and V1 processor. They deliver a rich, detailed audio experience with powerful bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The LDAC support ensures high-resolution audio streaming. Combined with superior ANC, the sound remains immersive and undisturbed.
Sony LinkBuds S
The LinkBuds S also deliver high-quality sound through their 5mm drivers. They offer a balanced audio profile with clear vocals and precise treble. While the bass isn’t as pronounced as the WF-1000XM4, it is still satisfactory for most genres. The open design allows more ambient noise, which may affect the immersion for some users.
Noise Cancellation
Sony WF-1000XM4
The WF-1000XM4’s ANC is among the best available. It uses advanced microphones and algorithms to cancel out a wide range of noises, from low-frequency rumblings to higher-pitched sounds. The Adaptive Sound Control feature enhances this by adjusting ANC based on your activity and environment.
Sony LinkBuds S
The LinkBuds S features ANC, but it doesn’t match the performance of the WF-1000XM4. The open design inherently allows more ambient noise, which the ANC can’t fully eliminate. However, for those who need to stay aware of their surroundings, this design is beneficial.
Battery Life
Sony WF-1000XM4
With ANC on, the WF-1000XM4 offers up to 8 hours of playback, with an additional 16 hours from the charging case. Turning off ANC extends the earbuds’ life to 12 hours, with 24 extra hours from the case. The inclusion of wireless charging and fast charging (60 minutes of playback from a 5-minute charge) adds convenience.
Sony LinkBuds S
The LinkBuds S provide up to 6 hours of playback with ANC on, plus 14 hours from the case. Without ANC, the earbuds last up to 9 hours, with 18 more hours from the case. They lack wireless charging but do support fast charging, giving 60 minutes of playback from a 5-minute charge.
Connectivity and Controls
Sony WF-1000XM4
The WF-1000XM4 uses Bluetooth 5.2 for a stable connection. They support LDAC for high-resolution audio. The touch controls are customizable through the Sony Headphones Connect app. Features like Speak-to-Chat and Quick Attention mode enhance usability without needing to remove the earbuds.
Sony LinkBuds S
The LinkBuds S also uses Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a reliable connection. They support LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs. The touch controls are intuitive and customizable via the Sony Headphones Connect app. Unique features like Adaptive Volume Control adjust sound based on surroundings, enhancing user experience.
| Features | Sony WF-1000XM4 | Sony LinkBuds S |
|---|---|---|
|
Release Date |
June 2022 |
May 2023 |
|
Type |
True Wireless In-Ear Noise Cancelling |
True Wireless Open-Ear |
|
Driver Size |
6mm dynamic drivers |
12mm ring-shaped drivers |
|
Noise Cancellation |
Advanced with Integrated Processor V1 |
No active noise cancellation |
|
Battery Life |
Up to 8 hours (earbuds) + 16 hours (case) |
Up to 5.5 hours (earbuds) + 12 hours (case) |
|
Charging |
USB-C, Qi wireless Charging |
USB -C |
|
Water Resistance |
IPX4 (splash-proof) |
IPX4 (splash-proof) |
|
Connectivity |
Bluetooth 5.2, SBC, AAC, LDAC codecs |
Bluetooth 5.2, SBC, AAC codecs |
|
Controls |
Touch-sensitive controls |
Touch-sensitive controls |
|
Special Features |
Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, High-Resolution Audio Wireless, Voice Assistant Compatibility (Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa) |
Transparency Mode, Smart Assistant Integration (Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa), Open-Ring Design for situational awareness |
|
Weight |
7.3 grams per earbud, 41 grams for the case |
7.3 grams per earbud, 41 grams for the case 4.8 grams per earbud, 34 grams for the case |
|
Colors |
Black, Silver |
Black, White |
|
Sound Quality |
Superior with high-resolution support, deep bass, clear highs |
Good sound quality with emphasis on environmental awareness |
|
Use Case |
Ideal for immersive audio, noise isolation, travel, noisy environments |
Ideal for outdoor activities, commuting, staying |
Pros and Cons
Sony WF-1000XM4
Pros:
- Superior sound quality with LDAC support
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Long battery life with wireless charging
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Extensive customization options via the app
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Slightly larger and heavier
- Limited color options
Sony LinkBuds S
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Good sound quality with situational awareness
- Effective, though not exceptional, noise cancellation
- More affordable than WF-1000XM4
- Unique features like Adaptive Volume Control
Cons:
- Open design allows more ambient noise
- Shorter battery life
- No wireless charging
- Less pronounced bass
Recommendation
Choosing between the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Sony LinkBuds S largely depends on your specific needs and preferences.
For Audiophiles and Frequent Travelers: Sony WF-1000XM4
If you prioritize sound quality and noise cancellation above all else, the Sony WF-1000XM4 is the best choice for you. These earbuds offer:
- Superior Audio: High-resolution audio support with rich, detailed sound, deep bass, and clear highs.
- Top-Tier Noise Cancellation: Advanced noise-canceling technology that effectively blocks out external noise, making them perfect for travel, commuting, or working in noisy environments.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge with an additional 16 hours from the charging case, ensuring they last through long flights or busy days.
- Convenient Features: Wireless charging, adaptive sound control, and touch-sensitive controls enhance usability and convenience.
These features make the WF-1000XM4 ideal for those who demand the best audio experience and noise isolation, even at a higher price point.
For Active Users and Budget-Conscious Buyers: Sony LinkBuds S
If you need earbuds that keep you aware of your surroundings and prefer a more budget-friendly option, the Sony LinkBuds S are an excellent choice. These earbuds offer:
- Open-Ear Design: The innovative ring-shaped driver allows you to stay aware of your environment, making them ideal for outdoor activities, running, biking, or commuting.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Extremely lightweight design ensures comfort even during extended use, and they stay securely in place during physical activities.
- Affordable Price: More budget-friendly compared to premium models, providing good value for the features offered.
- Transparency Mode: Allows ambient sound in without needing to remove the earbuds, enhancing situational awareness.
- Smart Assistant Integration: Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for hands-free control.
These features make the LinkBuds S perfect for users who need situational awareness, comfort, and a more affordable price without compromising too much on sound quality.
Overall Recommendation
Choosen the Sony WF-1000XM4
- if you need the best possible sound quality, advanced noise cancellation, and longer battery life. They are the ideal choice for audiophiles, frequent travelers, and those who work in noisy environments.
Choose the Sony LinkBuds S
- if you prioritize situational awareness, lightweight design, and affordability. They are perfect for active users, outdoor enthusiasts, and budget-conscious buyers.
Conclusion
The Sony WF-1000XM4 and Sony LinkBuds S cater to different needs and preferences.
The Sony WF-1000XM4 is perfect for those who prioritize sound quality and noise cancellation. It’s ideal for frequent travelers, commuters, and audiophiles willing to invest in premium audio performance. The robust ANC, long battery life, and high-resolution audio support make it a top choice in the premium wireless earbuds market.
The Sony LinkBuds S is suitable for users who need a balance between audio quality and situational awareness. The open-ring design is excellent for those who need to stay connected to their environment, like office workers and joggers. Its lower price point makes it an attractive option for those seeking good performance without the premium cost.
In summary, choose the WF-1000XM4 for the best audio performance and noise cancellation, and the LinkBuds S for comfort, affordability, and situational awareness
User Experiences: Sony WF-1000XM4 and Sony LinkBuds S
To provide a more comprehensive view, let’s look at the typical user experiences and feedback for both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Sony LinkBuds S.
Sony WF-1000XM4
Positive User Experiences
- Exceptional Sound Quality: Many users praise the WF-1000XM4 for their outstanding audio performance. The sound is often described as rich and immersive, with strong bass, clear mids, and crisp highs.
- Superior Noise Cancellation: Users frequently highlight the effectiveness of the noise-canceling feature. It’s particularly appreciated in noisy environments like airplanes, public transport, or busy offices.
- Comfort and Fit: Despite being slightly larger, the earbuds are noted for their comfortable fit, thanks to the ergonomic design and multiple ear tip sizes. They stay safely set up during different exercises.
- Battery Life: Users appreciate the long battery life, which lasts through long commutes and extended use without frequent recharging. The quick charge feature is also a plus.
- Premium Build Quality: The build quality and design receive positive feedback for being stylish and durable. The matte finish and overall aesthetics add to the premium feel.
Negative User Experiences- Price: The most common criticism is the high price point. Some users feel that while the earbuds are excellent, they are quite an investment.
- Size and Weight: A few users find the earbuds slightly bulky, which might cause discomfort during extended use for those with smaller ears.
- Touch Controls Sensitivity: Some users report that the touch controls can be overly sensitive or require a bit of a learning curve to use effectively.
Sony LinkBuds S
Positive User Experiences
- Unique Design for Awareness: Users appreciate the open-ear design that allows for ambient sound to come through. This feature is particularly valued by those who need to stay aware of their surroundings, like runners and cyclists.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: The lightweight nature of the LinkBuds S is frequently praised, with users mentioning how comfortable they are for long periods. They don’t cause ear fatigue as much as heavier models.
- Ease of Use: Many users find the touch controls intuitive and easy to use. The transparency mode is also a hit, making it easy to switch between focused listening and awareness of surroundings.
- Good Sound Quality: While not as high-end as the WF-1000XM4, the sound quality is still praised for being clear and balanced, making them a solid choice for general use.
- Affordable: Users often mention the more affordable price point as a significant advantage, providing good value for the features offered.
Negative User Experiences
- No Active Noise Cancellation: The lack of active noise cancellation is a common complaint, especially from users who are accustomed to this feature. This makes them less ideal for noisy environments.
- Battery Life: Some users find the battery life to be on the shorter side, especially when compared to other models like the WF-1000XM4.
- Sound Quality in Noisy Environments: Due to the open-ear design, some users note that the sound quality can be compromised in louder settings, as more ambient noise seeps in.
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FAQs
How long does the battery last on the Sony WF-1000XM4?
The WF-1000XM4 offers up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge. The charging case provides an additional 16 hours, totaling up to 24 hours of battery life. A quick 5-minute charge gives up to 60 minutes of playback.
The LinkBuds S feature a unique open-ear design with ring-shaped drivers. This design allows you to hear ambient sounds while listening to audio, making them ideal for staying aware of your surroundings.
The LinkBuds S offer up to 5.5 hours of playback on a single charge. The charging case provides an additional 12 hours, totaling up to 17.5 hours of battery life.
The WF-1000XM4 has an IPX4 water resistance rating, meaning they are splash-proof and can handle light rain and sweat, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use.
The WF-1000XM4 offers up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge. The charging case provides an additional 16 hours, totaling up to 24 hours of battery life. A quick 5-minute charge gives up to 60 minutes of playback.